Targeting CD38 Enzymatic Function in Antibody-Driven Immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma: Insights from Basic Research - Scorecard - MDSpire

Targeting CD38 Enzymatic Function in Antibody-Driven Immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma: Insights from Basic Research

  • By

  • Alberto L. Horenstein

  • Kristine A. Frerichs

  • Angelo C. Faini

  • Niels W. C. J. van de Donk

  • Fabio Malavasi

  • April 29, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Targeting CD38 Enzymatic Function in Antibody-Driven Immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma: Insights from Basic Research

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionMultiple Myeloma (MM)
Key MechanismsCD38 enzymatic activity contributes to adenosinergic metabolism, promoting immune suppression.
Target PopulationPatients with Multiple Myeloma, particularly those receiving CD38-targeted therapies.
Care SettingOncology, specifically in the treatment of hematologic malignancies.

Key Highlights

  • CD38-targeting mAbs (daratumumab and isatuximab) show antitumor activity but face resistance challenges.
  • CD38 degrades NAD+ into ADPR, influencing adenosine production and immune suppression.
  • Persistent adenosinergic signaling during therapy may contribute to immune evasion in MM.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize CD38 expression levels for diagnosis and monitoring of Multiple Myeloma.

Management

  • Consider CD38-targeted monoclonal antibodies as part of the treatment regimen for MM.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor adenosine and its metabolites in patients undergoing CD38-targeted therapy.

Risks

  • Be aware of potential therapeutic resistance due to sustained adenosinergic immunosuppression.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, particularly those with high CD38 expression.

Combining CD38-targeted therapies with agents that disrupt adenosinergic signaling may enhance treatment efficacy.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Integrate monitoring of adenosinergic metabolites in treatment plans for MM.
  • Explore combination therapies targeting both CD38 and adenosinergic pathways.

References

Original Source(s)

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